Introduction to Document Project 6: Women in the Revolution

DOCUMENT PROJECT 6

Women in the Revolution

The Revolutionary War had a tremendous impact on the lives of women, just as women helped shape the course of that conflict. As in all wars, women faced the fear and hardships brought on by absent men, inadequate supplies, roaming enemy soldiers, and nearby battles. But the war also expanded opportunities for women in the public sphere. They ran family farms and shops, raised money, and produced homespun goods for the Continental Army while defending themselves and their homes. Women also spied on enemy encampments, provided medical care for soldiers, and even fought alongside men on the battlefield. Women gained new skills, felt pride in their independence and abilities, and, like their male counterparts, gained satisfaction and sometimes fame in supporting the cause in which they believed. Although many cast their efforts in a political light, patriot leaders failed to treat them as equal partners in the revolution.

The following documents reflect a wide variety of women’s Revolutionary-era experiences. Some women, like Christian Barnes (Document 6.5), remained loyal to Great Britain and suffered attacks by patriot neighbors and soldiers. Bett, however, an enslaved African, turned revolutionary rhetoric to her advantage and sued for her own independence (Document 6.9). Abigail Adams, wife of the patriot leader John Adams, sought greater rights for all women, though she could only plead with her husband to take action (Document 6.7). Other women with connections to patriot political and military leaders carried messages behind British lines and raised funds for Continental troops (Documents 6.6 and 6.8). Almost all women faced new challenges, but some were also offered new opportunities or created their own.